Which type of storage primarily utilizes read and write operations in fixed-size blocks?

Block storage primarily utilizes read and write operations in fixed-size blocks, which makes it highly efficient for applications requiring quick access to data. In this storage architecture, data is divided into blocks of a specific size, and each block can be managed independently. This feature allows for low-latency access and is particularly suited for performance-sensitive applications, such as databases or transactional systems.

Block storage is often used in environments where a high degree of performance and reliability is required, such as in enterprise storage arrays, and it allows for easier management of volumes compared to other types of storage. Its capability to handle structured data efficiently makes it ideal for situations where the overhead of file or object storage would be detrimental to performance.

In contrast, object storage is suited for unstructured data and does not utilize fixed-size blocks; it manages data in a more complex, scalable way using unique identifiers. File storage, while using a hierarchical structure similar to traditional filesystem designs, does not inherently involve the manipulation of fixed-size blocks like block storage does. Cloud storage is a more generalized term that can incorporate various types of storage, including block, file, and object, but does not specifically refer to the block-level management of data.